From a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their standout discoveries from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after arriving, one visitor questioned about their selection. Yet the first suspicions rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This charming settlement provides beyond just a swim. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and cobbled alleys lined with bustling places to eat. Man-made jumping points make the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Nearby establishments offer delicious pastries and refreshments with genuine hospitality.
Classic Music in Germany's Capital
For lovers of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated club is a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, with a DJ playing only records. Furniture are sometimes cleared to allow for dance floor. Open late into the night, the bar occasionally features live music, making for a great night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a serene getaway. Visitors can hike to the peak of a slope and climb a giant wooden lookout for breathtaking views over lush fields. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be felt through rustic restaurants with robust fare and traditional music. A museum celebrates the work of a renowned naive artist, and the main area features several medicinal taps to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. Boasting several stunning pristine coastlines, its vibrant center is active every night with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town delivered a local atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. The lodging provided easy access to the sea and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb journey from the region. However, this line is said to be at risk of shutting down. The ride features photogenic stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Tourists are encouraged to experience this picturesque railway soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong identity. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is easy to get to by boat from multiple countries. The countryside is beautiful, featuring coastline, woods, and farms. A significant site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and then destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the site is free, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can hike for miles along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This secret area boasts sweeping vistas, marine life in the water, and an abundance of birds. The coast path meanders along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remains of old vessels are visible. A hike can begin at a 7th-century chapel, among the earliest in England, and end in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Shut during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The drive features constant turns to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Drivers can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, without a cable car. The drive also includes the potential for spotting bears, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a vibrant city transports people to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, visitors walk along tree-lined roads featuring beautiful homes. The feel is leisurely, with time interrupted by friendly cats and moments to look back at the distant city. The trip home is usually accompanied by thoughts for a future return to this incredible place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Housed behind a Gothic church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains thousands of ancient volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition showcases detailed old maps and
